PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • March 22, 2022
Putin, the man Trump has called a “genius,” potentially has done more to force us to address climate change and alternative energy than anyone. The sanctions have caused fuel prices to rise, an impetus to seek alternatives like solar, hydro and wind. Automobile manufacturers are already moving to hybrids and electric vehicles. Locally, we have Calpine to thank for dissuading Mainers from choosing hydro in favor of carbon-emitting natural gas. Calpine’s owner, Len Blavatnik, a wealthy Russian oligarch, spent heavily on the campaign against the hydro project using deceptive advertising. Those supporting Maine’s North Woods were supporting fossil fuel consumption and an oligarch. “Putin’s war” has given us an incentive to seek alternatives that don’t pollute Maine’s woods and waters by burning fossil fuels. ~ David Hyde, Pownal